Saturday, December 31, 2016

2016: A Look Back Through My Year

I can't get over the fact that today is the last day of 2016. It seems like just yesterday that I was writing a recap post for last year. I can honestly say that this year seems to have flown by faster than any other year. The saying "time flies when you're having fun" has held to be so true. I'll be honest, I walked into this year with more feelings of "not knowing" than I ever have before. We never know what a year will hold for us, but we usually have a feeling of "this will happen" or "I'll be doing this activity this year." For instance, I went into 2015 knowing that I would become a mama. Speaking of, I really didn't think that 2016 could top 2015, because how can anything top becoming a parent and meeting your baby for the very first time. But goodness was I wrong, because thanks to this sweet little girl in the pictures here, 2016 was full of fun, excitement and so many sweet moments.

When I found out I was going to have a little girl, I knew that I would love her to pieces but I never knew I would love her this much. When I found out I was going to be her mama, I knew that we would share a bond like no other, but I never realized it would be this special. Even at this young age, the bond we share is so close and sweet. I think one of my favorite parts of 2016 was the fact that Madeline began saying words. Her first word was "Hot" (my Mama taught her that food is hot at first haha), "Ice" and then "Mama". Even after months of hearing her say it, my heart just bursts with joy each time I hear her say my name. Each stage with her has been so much fun, but these last few months have been soso fun. I love watching her learn new things as she is taking in so much at such a fast pace right now. Seriously, I am astounded at some of the things this little girl comes out with. She keeps me on my toes, and she keeps my heart full of joy.

I absolutely love to just hold her when she falls asleep and stare at her. Sometimes, I still can't get over the fact that she's mine, and all I can say is "Thank you, Lord, for making me Madeline's Mama." I look back at all of the scary times, not knowing if I was able or prepared to be a mama, but it really is amazing to look back and see all that the Lord has brought me through as he has shaped and molded me to become what he has in store for me.

As I said, 2016 was definitely a year of not knowing, and through each step, I held my Heavenly Father's hand. He showed me that through him, all things are possible. I don't know how, but in the matter of a few months, I was beginning a new program in school, one that I never ever imagined myself being in. I blinked, and I'm already through the first semester of the program. I was also able to continue my blog and developed a new appreciation for it, unlike ever before. I was able to grow it and take it in a new direction. And most importantly, I am so very thankful that I was able to do both of these all from home so that I could work my schedule out to where being Madeline's Mama could remain the most important of all. All I know is that the Lord worked all of this out for me and allowed it all to happen in the way it did. I give him all the glory!

In 2016, I also learned to lean on the power of prayer even more. I found my prayer time being the most powerful moments of my day. I realized even more the importance of taking everything to the Lord in prayer. I learned to lean on his promises more than ever. "He will never leave you nor forsake you" and that is so so true, friends.

And again with this year, I am so very grateful for my family! The love that they show to me and especially Madeline touches my heart in every single way. And especially my Mama. If y'all didn't already know this, she takes all of my blog pictures! She never complains and always helps me to get my pictures just the way I need them. She is my biggest supporter and always encourages me to keep up what I love doing. The bond that she shares with me and Madeline is also so special. We call ourselves "the three Ms" (she's Mimi, I'm Mama, and then Madeline). We have so much fun together, and this year has proven to be more true with the fact the she's the best friend I could ever have. I have always been super close to her, but having your own daughter makes you realize how much you love your own mama even more.

And again in the year of 2016, I thank my Madeline for encouraging me to carry on. Everything I do is for her. This year was definitely a year of being tired haha. In order to stay on top of everything, sleep is what ended up getting cut out of my schedule. But I always had the encouragement to continue going, as everything I did was for my precious daughter. I always want her to know not to give up, especially when that seems to be the easiest thing to do. And for her to remember that "those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength..." (one of my favorite verses). So, Madeline, thank you for encouraging me to be the very best that I can be. Thank you for filling my heart with more joy than I could ever imagine. Everything I do, I do it all for you. Being your mama is my favorite part of life, and I love you more than you will ever know.

As for 2017, I feel that there are just as many "not knowings" as there were in 2016. I honestly have no idea of what this year has in store for me and Madeline. But this year is definitely a year of trusting. I am trusting in the Lord as I know that he holds our plans. I give it all to him. I think it's something how I can make plans and decide "okay, this is what I want for this year." Not that there's anything wrong with setting goals as I'm all for that (seriously, y'all should see my list for this upcoming year haha). But I sit there and pray and beg for the Lord to bring it all to pass. And then I start to get frustrated at times when I don't see what I had planned begin to happen. But as with this past year and the previous year, the Lord instead showed me his plan for my life as it has proven to be more than I could ever ask for or think of. That's the beauty of trusting in our Heavenly Father and giving our lives to him. So, for 2017, I trust. I trust in him, "who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think."

I also just want to say a huge "thank you" to each and every one of you who continue to visit my little space on the internet. The sweet comments and emails that I receive are one of the biggest reasons of why I love what I do. Thank you thank you thank you for sticking with me on this crazy adventure. Thank you for showing me that despite all of the hatred and craziness in this world, there are still so many kind hearted individuals like you all. Thank you for all of your love and support. I'm so excited to take y'all along on the journey and plans for my blog in 2017.

Rachel, how I loved watching Madeline grow this year. You seem like the sweetest and most adoring mother who not only shows amazing affection towards your daughter, but a genuine appreciation for your mother as well. What an amazing role model you are for your daughter and that is, perhaps, the most special gift that you can give her. Thank-you, so much for sharing these moments with us. God bless you and your family within this upcoming year.